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| Image by: Petite Wanderer Photography |
Job seekers, please listen. Your attitude does affect your reality. Let me explain with two scenarios:
Scenario #1 - A person is working at a nonprofit organization as a social worker. Let’s call this person “A.” “A” has been employed with the organization for several years in the same role. This person has their advanced degree in social work. However, in order for “A” to advance in their career, they would need to get a clinical license in social work. “A” is great in their job but would be more marketable to employers with this added license underneath their belt. What’s the problem? “A” doesn’t believe that they would advance in their career.
Scenario #2 - A college student (let’s name this person “B”) decides to interview for an internship position in marketing after obtaining their undergraduate degree. They need to volunteer to build work experience in the field. The student interviews for the position. They are confident and enthusiastic about the skills that they can bring to the organization. “B” lands the internship, and eventually a job with the organization.
What is the difference between the scenarios? The first person, “A,” has developed a negative thought pattern that has limited their perception of their professional ability. The second, “B,” has a positive one. How does this apply to you? As a job seeker, be mindful of the attitude that you are projecting when you are applying for jobs Yes, looking for a job is stressful, discouraging, and downright hard. This is especially true during the COVID-19 pandemic that we are facing. But, a negative attitude can affect your thought process. In turn, it can influence the way you present yourself to a potential employer during an interview. Thus, closing potential doors of employment opportunities because you have dismissed yourself before the employer did.
If you find that you fall into the “negative” category, here are a few things you can do to help change how you approach your job search:
- First, set aside time for leisure activities like reading a book or grabbing a cup of coffee with a friend. Looking for a job is exhausting. Who said you have to apply for jobs 24/7, 7 days a week? Instead set aside the morning time for your job search and evening time to relax. This will help you to create a balance and prevent burn-out.
- Secondly, limit the amount of self-defeating talk or behavior. For example, instead of saying “I will never find employment.” Try changing your language to something positive such as “I understand I am not employed now, but I am hopeful I will land a great opportunity soon.” This helps you to stay encouraged and motivated during your job search. Go ahead, practice positive affirmations!
- Lastly, engage in counseling services. Career coaches and counselors can help you find your talents and gifts. They can also work with you to create a comprehensive list of achievements and accomplishments that will accurately convey your experience. On a similar note, my Employment Growth Lesson #1: The Secret to Happiness is the Acceptance of Yourself: Have You Discovered Your Career Passion? that I posted a month ago, can help to aid in that self-discovery before your first session.
Best of luck!